A cyclist riding on the North Western Motorway near Patiki Rd. In Auckland, New Zealand, was stopped by police on Monday after initially attempting to evade a speed check by turning around and travelling in the opposite direction.
Incident Details
According to a witness post on Reddit, the cyclist was observed “swerving” and riding “pretty recklessly.” The witness noted a police car was present conducting speed camera operations approximately 10 meters ahead. Police confirmed they were carrying out speed checks in the area at the time.
After noticing the police unit, the cyclist “rapidly turn[ed]” his bike around and began riding against the flow of traffic. Officers subsequently caught up with the cyclist at the Te Atatū Rd on-ramp. Police stated they engaged in a “prevention discussion” with the man, advising him of the dangers of his actions and directing him to the nearby North Western Cycleway.
Pattern of Incidents
This incident is not isolated. In 2019, another cyclist was caught riding dangerously on Auckland’s Northern Motorway during peak-hour traffic, requiring motorists to change lanes to avoid a collision. A witness reported that the cyclist was verbally confronting drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did police do after stopping the cyclist?
Police had a prevention discussion with the man, advised him of the dangers of his actions, and directed him to the nearby North Western Cycleway.
Was this the first time a cyclist has been reported on the North Western Motorway?
No, in 2017, police received at least 10 reports of a cyclist riding without a helmet on the North Western Motorway.
What happened in 2019 involving a cyclist on Auckland’s Northern Motorway?
In 2019, a cyclist was caught riding dangerously on Auckland’s Northern Motorway during peak-hour traffic, and was reportedly yelling at drivers.
Given the recurring nature of these incidents, what further steps might be taken to ensure the safety of cyclists and other motorway users?